Tree of Life donates $200,000 to Pittsburgh Public Safety Department

The Tree of Life synagogue, where 11 people died in a mass shooting two years ago, has approved a $200,000 donation to the Pittsburgh Public Safety Department.

Pittsburgh City Council on Tuesday introduced a resolution that would authorize acceptance of the gift.

A half-dozen police officers were injured and city paramedics and doctors risked their lives during a gun battle Oct. 27, 2018, with Robert Bowers, who remains jailed pending federal prosecution. Donations poured in for city first responders and the synagogue following the event.

Pittsburgh Public Safety Director Wendell Hissrich said the city was “incredibly grateful for this generous grant.”

“I would particularly like to thank Tree of Life Past President Sam Schachner, current President Carol Sikov-Gross and Vice President Alan Hausman for recognizing the importance of procuring lifesaving equipment and vehicles,” he said. “While we never want to experience another devastating tragedy like the events of October 27th, 2018, this donation will go toward equipping first responders with the resources they need to protect Pittsburgh.”

Boards of the synagogue’s three congregations – Tree of Life, Dor Hadash, and New Light – approved the gift. The money comes from donations.

Tree of Life members suggested it be used to purchase vehicles and equipment for active threat and mass casualty situations, noting city police and tactical medics saved the lives of two congregants.